The Mill & Barn, Nohoval, Co. Cork for sale July 2025 courtesy Lisney Sotheby’s P17EY88
€2,250,000
8 Bed7 Bath329 m²
The Mill & The Barn A Coastal Country Estate (Close to Kinsale, Co. Cork) A stone’s throw from the sea lie two exceptional properties: The Mill and The Barn. Situated on just over 1.5 acres of secluded, mature woodland and landscaped gardens. Though independent in design and purpose, these two residences share a sense of history, craftsmanship, and modern luxury that sets them apart as a rare sanctuary near the renowned town of Kinsale on Ireland’s Southwest Coast. Dating back to circa 1840, The Mill House is a three-storey residence that once harnessed the energy of a stream. Today, this former mill has recently been painstakingly restored and refurbished to an exacting standard, blending its rich industrial heritage with contemporary comfort. Featured in Irish Homes Interiors and Living, the house is a testament to thoughtful restoration and refined design. On the ground floor, oversized entrance doors open into a wide, welcoming hallway with solid oak floors and a curved original stone staircase (reclaimed from the heritage Fota House) spiralling up through the house. Two generously proportioned double bedrooms are located on this level, both overlooking the peaceful front courtyard and complete with luxurious ensuite bathrooms with high end sanitary ware. The first floor is where daily life unfolds. Critall steel doors frame the entrance to the light-filled kitchen/dining and living area. An impressive, bespoke, hand crafted kitchen combines artisanal quality with modern convenience. The bespoke kitchen has been hand painted with solid oak interiors. A La Canche oven and other top tier integrated appliances add to the kitchen’s convenience. In the centre of the kitchen is a large sweeping island ideal for casual dining. Adjacent is the dining space that seats twelve comfortably. Windows flood the space with light whist oak floors run seamlessly through to the adjoining living and dining rooms. The lounge with its solid fuel stove and wrought iron surround invites a warm and cosy atmosphere. This open-plan area offers a harmonious blend of old and new, with direct access to the rear gardens, where tranquil outdoor seating spaces and mature landscaping offer places of peaceful retreat. Climbing to the second floor, you’ll find three further uniquely designed modernised ensuite bedrooms, offering privacy and luxury for family or guests. Each room offers leafy views, serenity, and an atmosphere of natural elegance. To the front, there is ample parking for up to five cars. In addition, a front elevated tiled terrace, next to the bubbling stream by the castellated original wall , where you can enjoy a coffee in the morning sun. The rear patio provides an outdoor dining space complete with a dedicated outdoor kitchen, two separate lounge areas at either end of the large limestone patio defined by a beautifully tiled “rug”, and a fully enclosed lawned garden framed by mature trees and a meandering stream provide multiple zones for relaxation and entertaining. At the far end of the garden stands a charming boathouse/summer house, ideal for conversion into a luxury gym, sauna, or wellness retreat. There is a kitchen garden, abundant with fresh herbs and vegetables ideal for the budding chef which completes this vibrant outdoor living experience. In striking contrast to the period charm of The Mill, The Barn is a modern architectural gem, completed in 2021 and designed by acclaimed architect James Murphy O’Connor. Clad in sleek black aluminium and nestled in a quiet glade, this residence is both minimalist and luxurious, offering its own unique character and appeal. Upon entry through the critall doors – a nod to the interior design in the Mill, guests are greeted by a bright oak-floored hallway framed by feature dual-aspect windows. A fully fitted kitchen with rich wood cabinetry and marble countertops opens to a light-filled lounge and dining area. On this floor, you’ll also find a cozy double bedroom and a full shower room complete with luxurious sanitary ware and fittings. Upstairs, the oak herringbone staircase leads to two beautifully designed bedrooms and a shower room. The principal bedroom features a Gucci Glass botanical wallpaper, inspired by the lush views outside along with extensive built-in wardrobes and sophisticated fittings. The second upstairs bedroom mirrors the same standard of quality and serene design. Also on this floor is a second luxurious shower room clad in marble with opulent fittings and sanitary ware. The heart of The Barn is its magnificent rear deck, suspended dramatically over the mill stream and surrounded by mature woodland. This extraordinary outdoor space offers one of the most tranquil and scenic lounging areas imaginable—ideal for entertaining or quiet contemplation. Beyond the timeless beauty of the homes themselves, one of the most surprising features is access to a private beach, quietly tucked along the nearby coastline. This hidden stretch of coastline is an extraordinary amenity rarely found elsewhere. This is a short stroll from either property and offers a peaceful escape with stunning coastal views and crystal-clear waters. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs, it’s perfect for relaxing, swimming, or simply soaking in nature’s beauty. Time spent here feels serene and refreshing, making it an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking tranquillity by the sea. Together, The Mill and The Barn present a rare opportunity to own a pair of unique homes that blend heritage, contemporary design, and natural beauty—all within a truly magical woodland and coastal setting. The nearest village is the small, picturesque Nohoval located in County Cork known for its infamous restaurant Pub and Restaurant Finder’s Inn. Surrounded by rolling countryside and dramatic cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Nohoval is just a 10-minute drive from the exclusive, internationally renowned town of Kinsale. Adored by sports, food and history enthusiasts alike. famed as an international yachting destination with its two marinas and its world-renowned golf course The Old Head of Kinsale. Kinsale is also known as the gourmet capital of Ireland, and a magnet for history lovers with its two early 17th century Forts. Cork City is approximately 30 minutes by car, making it convenient for work or leisure. Cork Airport is only 25 minutes away, ideal for travel access.
Detached L-plan three-bay two-storey former rectory, built c. 1840, with gabled porch to front, single-storey box projection to east gable, three-bay west elevation, and slightly recessed full-height lean-to additions to rear. Now in use as private house. Hipped slate roof with rendered chimneystacks and cast-iron rainwater goods. Pitched slate roof, ceramic ridge cresting, decoratively carved timber bargeboards and finial to porch. Smooth rendered walls. Square-headed window openings with limestone sills and six-over-six pane timber sliding sash windows. Recent French doors inserted to one ground floor window. Timber four-pane double casement and four-over-two pane and two-over-two pane timber sliding sash windows to additions. Square-headed window openings to porch having nine-pane fixed timber windows, and timber panelled door with render label-moulding. Series of stone-walled outbuildings with pitched slate roofs to site, set against boundary wall to north. Rubble stone boundary wall enclosing site.
Ballyhooly Vicarage, Ballyhooly, Co Cork.Ballyhooly Vicarage, Ballyhooly, Co Cork.
Appraisal
This attractive former rectory was built with simple classical proportions in an L-plan, giving it a sense of restrained grandeur most suitable to its function. It retains historic fabric such as timber sash windows and the slate roof. The porch, with its decorative bargeboards and ridge tiles, adds to the attraction of the building. The attendant outbuildings are an integral part of the complex.
Ballyhooly Vicarage, Ballyhooly, Co Cork.Ballyhooly Vicarage, Ballyhooly, Co Cork.Ballyhooly Vicarage, Ballyhooly, Co Cork.Ballyhooly Vicarage, Ballyhooly, Co Cork.Ballyhooly Vicarage, Ballyhooly, Co CorkBallyhooly Vicarage, Ballyhooly, Co Cork.
Raheens House, County Mayo, courtesy National Inventory.
Detached three-bay two-storey over basement country house, built 1847-8, on an L-shaped plan centred on single-bay full-height pedimented breakfront; two-bay (east) or three-bay (west) full-height side elevations. Occupied, 1901; 1911. Vacated, 1932. “Closed”, 1933. Sold, 1941. Vacant, 1945. In ruins, 1976. Hipped roof now missing with remains of cast-iron rainwater goods on cut-limestone stepped cornice. Part creeper- or ivy-covered coursed hammered limestone walls on lichen-covered drag edged cut-limestone cushion course on coursed hammered limestone base with tooled cut-limestone flush quoins to corners. Square-headed central door opening in tripartite arrangement approached by flight of three moss-covered cut-limestone steps with cut-limestone monolithic surround supporting lichen-covered “Cyma Recta” or “Cyma Reversa” cornice. Square-headed window opening (first floor) with drag edged dragged cut-limestone sill, and red brick block-and-start surround supporting tooled cut-limestone voussoirs with two-over-two timber sash window now missing. Square-headed window openings in bipartite arrangement with drag edged dragged cut-limestone sills, and red brick block-and-start surrounds supporting tooled cut-limestone voussoirs with one-over-one (ground floor) or two-over-two (first floor) timber sash windows now missing. Square-headed window openings (remainder) with drag edged dragged cut-limestone sills, and red brick block-and-start surrounds with six-over-six timber sash windows now missing. Interior in ruins including (ground floor): central hall on a square plan with remains of run moulded plasterwork cornice to ceiling; drawing room (east) with no fittings surviving; dining room (west) with elliptical-headed buffet niche. Set in unkempt grounds.
Appraisal
The shell of a country house erected for Hugh John Henry Browne (1800-68) representing an important component of the nineteenth-century domestic built heritage of the rural environs of Castlebar with the architectural value of the composition, ‘a neat cut stone building’ retaining at least the footings of an eighteenth-century house displaying a comparable footprint on the first edition of the Ordnance Survey (surveyed 1838; published 1839), confirmed by such attributes as the deliberate alignment maximising on panoramic vistas overlooking wooded grounds and Lannagh or Castlebar Lough; the compact plan form centred on a Classically-detailed breakfront; and the diminishing in scale of the openings on each floor producing a graduated visual impression with those openings once showing elegant bipartite glazing patterns. Although reduced to ruins following a prolonged period of neglect, the elementary form and massing survive intact together with fragments of the original fabric including, remarkably, some sleek plasterwork refinements highlighting the now-modest artistic potential of the composition. Furthermore, an adjacent coach house-cum-stable outbuilding (see 31307809); a walled garden (see 31307810); a private burial ground (opened 1868); and the nearby “Cenotaph” (see 31307811), all continue to contribute positively to the group and setting values of an estate having historic connections with the Browne family including Neal O’Donel Browne RM (1804-74) ‘late of Rahins [sic] County Mayo’ (Calendars of Wills and Administrations 1874, 59); and Dodwell Francis “The Judge” Browne JP LLB (1841-1920), ‘Pensioner Ceylon Civil Service late of Rahins [sic] Castlebar County Mayo’ (Calendars of Wills and Administrations 1920, n.p.).
Raheens House, County Mayo, courtesy National Inventory.Raheens House, County Mayo, courtesy National Inventory.Raheens House, County Mayo, courtesy National Inventory.Raheens House, County Mayo, courtesy National Inventory.Raheens House, County Mayo, courtesy National Inventory.
Farmyard complex, dated 1784, including: Detached eleven-bay single-storey coach house-cum-stable outbuilding with half-attic on a symmetrical plan. Now in ruins. Pitched slate roof now missing, lichen-covered dragged cut-limestone coping to gables with drag edged dragged limestone ashlar bellcote (south) or drag edged dragged limestone ashlar chimney stack (north) to apexes, and no rainwater goods surviving on dragged cut-limestone eaves. Part creeper- or ivy-covered walls originally rendered with drag edged tooled cut-limestone quoins to corners. Segmental-headed central carriageway with drag edged tooled cut-limestone block-and-start surround centred on date stone-inscribed drag edged tooled cut-limestone keystone (“1784”). Square-headed flanking door openings with drag edged tooled cut-limestone block-and-start surrounds centred on drag edged tooled cut-limestone keystones. Square-headed window openings with drag edged dragged cut-limestone sills, and drag edged tooled cut-limestone block-and-start surrounds centred on drag edged tooled cut-limestone keystones with no fittings surviving. Interior in ruins. Set in unkempt grounds shared with Raheens House.
Appraisal
A coach house-cum-stable outbuilding erected by Dodwell Browne (d. 1796) not only contributing positively to the group and setting values of the Raheens House estate, but also surviving as interesting evidence of the eighteenth-century origins of the estate.
Raheens House, County Mayo, courtesy National Inventory.Raheens House, County Mayo, courtesy National Inventory.Raheens House, County Mayo, courtesy National Inventory.Raheens House, County Mayo, courtesy National Inventory.
Raheens House, County Mayo, courtesy National Inventory.Raheens House, County Mayo, courtesy National Inventory.Raheens House, County Mayo, courtesy National Inventory.Raheens House, County Mayo, courtesy National Inventory.Raheens House, County Mayo, courtesy National Inventory.
Gateway, extant 1895, on a symmetrical plan comprising pair of vermiculated-banded drag edged tooled limestone ashlar piers on battered plinths having “Cavetto” stringcourses below lichen-covered rock faced cut-limestone capping supporting wrought iron double gates. Now disused. Road fronted at entrance to grounds of Raheens House.
Appraisal
A gateway making a pleasing visual statement in a sylvan street scene at the entrance on to the grounds of the now-bisected Raheens House estate.
Raheens House, County Mayo, courtesy National Inventory.Raheens House, County Mayo, courtesy National Inventory.
The Entrance Front of Raheens House, once home to the Browne Family Copyright ICHC
The name of the townland which it is long associated with Raheens House near Castlebar , has a number of different spellings, it can be spelt Raheens, Rahins and Rehins. Over the years the size of this modest house has been exaggerated, some reports state that the house contained 35 rooms another 54, however the 1911 census revealed that the house actually extended to a more modest 17 rooms. An advertisement for the sale of the contents of the house in 1933 indicates that it contained an Entrance Hall, Dining Room, Drawing Room, Kitchen and six bedrooms. The decline of the house was swift from the time after the departure of the Browne Family in the 1930’s. A curious visitor to the house in 1954 recorded that it had been in ruins by that point for several years.
The images above shows Raheens House prior to it descending in to ruins
The image below shows the house from a similar angle today
Copyright ICHC
Raheen’s House was built in 1847 during the Irish Famine and replaced an earlier house that existed on the site, however the kitchen from the earlier house was incorporated in to the new structure. An older residence on the site was pulled down around the year 1835 by Hugh John Henry Browne who built the present structure. John Wesley described the older structure as a fortified house with two turrets which were still standing in 1835. The Browne’s were said to have been visited by Wesley who founded the Methodist religion and who traveled Ireland on horseback in the 1780’s. Wesley laid the foundation stone for the Methodist Church in Castlebar in May 1785. The house is built solidly of chiseled limestone and stands in the centre of what was once a beautifully wooded park. The surrounding landscape was said to be exceptional pleasing when viewed from the Drawing Room window. This estate which surrounded the house extended to 1,000 acres and came into the possession of the Browne family at the time of the Cromwellian Plantations allegedly in exchange for a white horse. In the 1800’s the estate was owned by Dodwell Browne who married Elizabeth Cuffe of Ballinrobe who died in 1777 aged only 44. Dodwell married secondly Maria O’Donel, daughter of Sir Nial O’Donel of Newport. A few years after her marriage, Maria became unwell and had to be transported to Dublin for treatment. As she left her home at Raheens her condition worsened, and she was only a short distance from the house when the horses drawing her carriage came to a halt and would not move. Due to great efforts of the driver the horses eventually relented, and they continued on their journey to Dublin, where Maria died. In 1809, Maria’s husband erected an obelisk on the spot where the horses stopped on the day of her departure. The monument is 25 metres in height and can be viewed from the main reception rooms of the house, as an eye catcher or folly in the landscape.
The image above shows the monument to Maria Browne as it is todayThe image of the monument below dates from 1880
In September 1910 it became necessary for repairs to be made to this monument which had become unstable. The London steeplejacks of Mr. Will Larkins of 18 Alfred Street, Bow, London were employed to rebuild the apex of the memorial obelisk. It is said at this time that the estate at Raheens was in exceptionally condition as the then owner Dodwell F. Browne had taken up permanent residence in recent years. The monument is built of tapering chiseled limestone that rises to a height of 70 feet that sits upon a plinth of 10 feet. Atop the monument sits a globe of limestone which had been blown off the monument in a storm in the 1890’s which had remained on the ground thereafter. It appeared that an iron dowel had rusted which allowed the apex of the monument to collapse during the gale. The masonry had also suffered over the years when a mountain ash had become embedded high up on the obelisk that had began to dislodge loose stones and it became necessary to have it removed. Mr. Larkin, who was employed to carry out repairs to the structure, supposedly began his career at the age of seven and during his working life he had never suffered any serious injury despite working at extreme heights. He had carried out repairs to the steeple of the Protestant Church in Athenry which was struck by lightning and it was from here that he spied the lady who became his wife. The work to the obelisk at Raheens was carried out by a Mr. Stacey and a number of assistants over three days. The apex was reached by the means of a telescopic ladder which was lashed to the structure. Thereafter a scaffolding was built around the apex which was supported by four small pieces of timber. From this platform, the root of the tree was extracted and the damaged courses rebuilt. A copper dowel was inserted which allowed the fallen globe to be returned to its position on top of the monument. When the monument was built in 1809, a slab was placed on the obelisk inscribed with the words
‘ A Marie
Et A L’Armour
Par son Chere Epouse
Dodwell
1809’
Followed by another slab, which is inscribed
‘ To Gaiety
and
Innocence’
Higher on the monument is a profile of a women said to be that of Maria who in the decade prior to her death wrote to General Humbert who had just taken Castlebar in 1798. She allayed to him her concerns about the safety of herself and other aristocratic ladies in the community. The General replied assuring her of his protection and extended an invitation for Maria and her husband to dine with him. It is said that General Humbert visited the Browne’s at Raheen’s on three separate occasions.
The Entrance Front of Raheens House, once home to the Browne Family Copyright ICHC
Dodwell Browne died in the 1830’s and the estate was inherited by his son Hugh John Henry Browne who proceeded to plant a number of trees within the demesne including a number of trees along the original avenue. The new house was built at the height of the famine however elements of the original structure that existed on the site were retained such as the kitchen which formed part of the basement of the new house and the out buildings to the rear of the house were also retained. The expense of rebuilding the Browne family home left Hugh John Henry heavily indebted, after his death the encumbered estate passed to Henry’s brother Neil in 1870. Neil O’Donel Browne died on the 15th March 1874 at 8 Upper Mount Street Dublin and left an estate of less than £6,000. With his passing the estate at Raheen’s passed to his son, Dodwell, who spent most of his professional life in the colonial service in Ceylon ( now known as Sri Lanka) from where he returned to Raheens in 1905. Dodwell had three sons, Dodwell, Keppel and O’Donnell and a daughter Norah Lucy. On the 19th February 1895 it was reported that the only daughter of Dodwell Browne, Norah Lucy Frances Dodwell married Thomas Yates Wright the younger son of C. Wright of Lower Oak, Tyldesley, Lancashire.
The Rear Elevation of Raheens House Copyright ICHC
In October 1908 in Naas, Co. Kildare the death occurred of Dodwell’s son, Keppel Glenny Dowell Browne, who was unmarried and aged 35. He was a barrister and had been suffering from Leukaemia. He left £479 13s 4d in his will which was administered by his brother Dodwell F. Browne. His remains were interred in the family vault at Raheens with those of his ancestors. At the time of the census in 1911, Dodwell Francis Browne aged 69 is in living in the house at Raheen’s together with his wife Annabelle aged 65, who was born in Co. Down. Their daughter Norah Lucy Dodwell Browne Wright aged 36 who was born in Ceylon and Dodwell’s granddaughter Annabelle Dodwell Browne, aged 6 are also present in the house together with three domestic servants. After the death of Dodwell Senior in 1920, his wife Annabelle continued to live in the house. Her son, Dodwell, became the owner of the estate but he had emigrated to Australia where he remained permanently after 1923 and was joined by his sister after the death of their mother in 1932.
The monument to Maria Browne when viewed from Raheens House Copyright ICHC
On the 4th December 1932, Annabelle Browne died who in her youth was said to be the envy of many young women when she made her debut on the social scene in London. She was received by royalty and was apparently a frequent visitor to Buckingham Palace. With the death of Annabelle, the Browne connection with Raheens came to an end. The contents of the house were advertised for auction which was carried out over two days in April 1933. The contents of the entrance hall offered for sale included Indian and Chinese ornaments together with mounted birds, exotic animal heads and antlers. What is interesting, is that the animal heads must not have held much appeal for anyone at the auction as it was noted in 1954 when the house was in ruins that these remained on the walls in the house. In the dining room there was a circular mahogany table with twelve chairs, an oak side board and a valuable collection of books contained in a number of bookcases. The drawing room contained a collection of ebony furniture, a grand piano, arm chairs and an Axminister carpet. Also offered for sale were the contents of six bedrooms and the auction was conducted by Robert Caldwell, an auctioneer from Ballinrobe, Co. Mayo. Prior to the sale of the house, the Land Commission had acquired most of the Browne land in 1928 and divided it among the tenants.
Looking into the hallway of Raheens House, very little remains Copyright ICHC
In January 1940, the remaining lands of the estate were offered for sale which amounted to 168 acres, which was retained by the family after the bulk of their lands were divided by the Land Commission. In April 1941 it was announced that Reheens Demesne near Castlebar had been sold. It was at that time the property of Dodwell Browne who had been in Australia for some time at the time of the sale. It was said that the demesne had been purchased by a local man and prior to this Raheens had been abandoned with irreparable damage having been done to the woods surrounding the house. The mansion house at the centre of the estate at this time was said to have been in good condition and that the surrounding farm buildings were also in good repair. However, by 1954, the house was in ruins with its large reception room open to the sky and large amounts of rubble having collected in the basement. A curious visitor to the house at this time, recorded what they had seen and mentioned that the roof was stripped from the house in 1947. At this time they noted that there was a strange gate post to be found on the avenue. It was actually the barrel of a seventeenth century cannon, one of four other cannons that once could be found in the grounds of Raheens House. Within walking distance of the obelisk, there is the Browne family vault where several the family members are buried. The last member of the family to buried there occured in 1940 approx. One mystery that is associated with the family vault are two interments whose deaths both occured on the same day. Hugh John Henry Browne and Neal O’Browne both died on the 2nd October 1868, what tragedy befell the family on that day.
The Old Rectory, Termonfeckin, Co. Louth for sale June 2025 courtesy Robert B. Daly and Sons Ltd
€1,350,000
4 Bed
4 Bath
Summary Experience the perfect blend of an elegant Georgian Residence together with a modern mews, standing on a beautiful 2.75-acre site in the glorious village of Termonfeckin. This is The Old Rectory in Termonfeckin, County Louth. The property encompasses 4 main features: The Main Georgian Residence The modern Mews Outbuildings of Office, kitchen and stores The grounds 2.75 acres – which are Residentially zoned and afford the possibilities of a number of houses. Situated in the heart of the village, and just 10 minutes from Drogheda Town, this property showcases a wealth of period features that evoke the essence of a former era. This property is located in the charming seaside village of Termonfeckin, a most attractive village, that has still retained its attractive old world character with nice streetscapes, with its natural beauty, fascinating history, and warm community spirit. For those seeking outdoor activities, Termonfeckin offers ample opportunities for golfing, walking, and cycling. The nearby golf courses in both Seapoint and Co. Louth (Baltray) are internationally recognised. The surrounding countryside offers trails for walkers and cyclists to explore, especially down to Seapoint Beach, just further along the coast to Clogherhead pier and walks. Accommodation Summary: Main House Ground Floor consisting of: Porch, Large Entrance Hall, Formal Sitting Room, Spacious Living Room, Dining Room, Kitchen, WC First Floor Consisting of: Main Bathroom, 4 no. Bedrooms (1 En-Suite), Store Basement level consisting of: Wet Room, Fuel Store, 4 Storage Rooms The Mews Ground Floor consisting of: Entrance Hall, Sitting Room, Utility, 2 no. Bedrooms (2 En-Suite, 1 Walk-In Wardrobe) First Floor Consisting of: Kitchen/Dining Room, Living Room, Sunroom Office Building and Stables Office, Kitchenette, WC, Garage, Stable / shed Grounds On Approx. 2.75 Acres / 1.1 Hectares
Main House Description The Old Rectory stands proudly in the center of Termonfeckin Village in south County Louth. True to its Georgian period, it is a captivating gem that exudes charm and character. Steeped in history, this grand residence showcases architectural and period features that the Georgian Period is revered for. As you approach the house, through its fine gates, and sweeping driveway, you approach an elegant exterior, and well-maintained gardens, which set the stage for a truly enchanting experience. Upon stepping inside the home, you are greeted by a sense of warmth and sophistication. The interior of the Old Rectory House boasts spacious rooms with high ceilings, intricate detailing, and original fireplaces, all meticulously preserved to retain their timeless allure. The tasteful blend of classic and Accommodation Attractive glazed Porch leading to A Large Entrance Hall leading to Sitting Room with Fireplace and large well maintained sliding sash windows, Fitted Cupboards and Display Shelves Living Room with Fireplace and large well maintained sliding sash windows with views to the rear garden. Dining room with connection through to Kitchen with direct access to the basement level Inner hall with Impressive Staircase and direct access to the basement level Guest WC Upstairs: Large landing Large Main Bathroom with bath, washbasin, and WC Master bedroom Suite with En-suite (Shower, washbasin, and WC) and Walk-In Wardrobe Bedroom 2 Large double bed with Fitted Wardrobe and connection to storage room Bedroom 3 Large Bright room with fitted wardrobes and large sliding sash windows Bedroom 4 Bright room with Fitted Wardrobe Basement Level has an external entrance. There are multiple storage rooms (c. 5) Wet room, utilities, wine cellar etc offering a multitude of possibilities. The Mews Description Mews homes are known for their cozy and efficient layouts, making them ideal for individuals, couples, or small families seeking a stylish and low-maintenance living space. The Mews was newly built in 1999 and is in excellent order and condition throughout. It has a nice interior design with the main reception rooms and kitchen located on the upper floor. Accommodation Ground Floor: Main Entrance Hall with access to Large sitting room Utility Bedroom 1 En-suite (Shower, Washbasin, WC) Main Bedroom Walk-in Wardrobe, En-suite (Bath, Washbasin, WC) First Floor: Landing Large Bright Kitchen / Dining Area Sitting Room with connection to Sunroom Office Building and Stable Description Large Office space with built-in storage and Kitchenette and WC. Ideal as a Home Office or easily converted to accommodation. Accommodation Open Office Space with access to kitchenette and WC Garage Space Stable / Shed
Listed The main house is listed in the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (Reg No.: 13834009) and the Louth Registry of Protected Listed Buildings. (Reg No.: LHS022-025)
Detached three-bay two-storey over basement former rectory, built c. 1840, now in use as private house. Rectangular-plan, single-storey porch added to west. Hipped slate roof, lead hips and ridges, rendered chimneystacks, flat cap stones, overhanging painted-timber lined eaves, scrolled brackets, cast-iron gutters. Painted roughcast rendered walling, smooth rendered slightly projecting chamfered plinth, rendered quoins to porch. Square-headed window openings, slightly projecting smooth rendered soffits and reveals, painted timber tripartite windows to east and west elevations; painted timber six-over-six and three-over-three sliding sash windows to south elevation; wrought-iron bars to basement windows north elevation, round-headed window opening, painted timber paired casement windows with margins and spoked fanlight. Square-headed door opening to south elevation of porch, painted timber moulded surround, painted timber and glazed panelled door, tooled limestone step. Outbuildings to north converted to living accommodation; single-storey north range, random rubble coursed walling, red brick dressings, segmental-headed carriage arches infilled; east range converted to two-storey house. Set in mature garden with curving avenue to road, random coursed rubble boundary wall, granite gate piers and wrought-iron gates.
Appraisal
This well-proportioned and elegant former rectory forms part of an interesting religious complex with the church to its south. Its simple form is enlivened by the fenestration with an attractive use of tripartite windows to the front and rear elevations.
Mark Bence-Jones. A Guide to Irish Country Houses (originally published as Burke’s Guide to Country Houses volume 1 Ireland by Burke’s Peerage Ltd. 1978); Revised edition 1988 Constable and Company Ltd, London.
“(Langrishe, Bt/PB) A pleasant Victorian house in the late-Georgian manner, its front improved in recent years by the introduction of a leaded fanlight. Small and elegant bifurcating staircase. The house overlooks a small lake with a grotto. The seat of the Pringle family, sold 1956 to Capt H.R.H. Langrishe (now Sir Hercules Langrishe, 7th and present Bt).”
not in national inventory
Record of Protected Structures:
A Victorian House in the late Georgian manner. It was the
Located outside Kilmessan, Bence-Jones described Ringlestown as a pleasant Victorian house in the late Georgian manner. A pond with a waterfall and fountain were located to the south of the house.
John Wilkinson of Curtistown purchased Ringlestown in the middle of the eighteenth century. About 1840 John Wilkinson built a new house for his younger son, Robert, at Ringlestown. His cousin, one of the Mason Yeates, erected a house of the same design at Grangemoccin, Delhusey, Co. Dublin. Robert and his sister lived at Ringlestown until 1885. He erected a shell grotto, created an artificial lake and a bath house. In 1876 Robert Wilkinson of Ringlestown held 124 acres in County Meath. Robert had no children and the property was inherited by his nephew, George. George had been to Oxford and he installed a water pump and a gas plant. George kept driving horse but did not hunt or shoot. George died at another Wilkinson home at Curtistown in the late 1920s.
The Land Commission then acquired Ringlestown. Senator Bill Quirke purchased the house.
Bill Quirke was born in Clonmel in 1894 and was involved with the Tipperary No £ Brigade IRA. In 1921 he was imprisoned on Spike Island in Cork Harbour by the British forces. He and seven others managed to make an escape from this very safe prison. Quirke took the republican side in the Civil War. There is a story that one day he came face to face with Larry Clancy, a neighbour who was on the pro-treaty side. Both of them were armed. Bill is alleged to have defused what might have been a serious situation by saying, “Larry, if I shoot you or you shoot me, there is not much in that for either of us, so why don’t we both have sense and go home?” For a period in the 1920s he went to America. Returning to Ireland he became involved in his family’s auctioneering business. In 1932 he became a senator, a position he led until his death in 1955. He served as Leader of the House. He was a pioneer in the development of the Irish bogs and was at an early stage a director of the Turf Development Board. He was also a member of the Agricultural Credit Corporation and of the Racing Board. In 1936 he moved to Ringlestown. He revived the Tara Harriers and became Master. He served two terms as Mayor of Clonmel in the late 1940s and early 1950s. The family lived in Dublin for a period. Senator Quirke died from a seizure on 5th March 1955 while taking part in the Ward Union Hunt at Garristown. The President Sean T. O’Kelly and the Taoiseach Eamon de Valera attended the funeral.
The house was lived in by Surgeon and Mrs. Pringle during the late 1940s and early 1950s. Seton Sidney Pringle began his career as a surgeon to the Mercer Hospital, to which his father had bequeathed a large amount of money for hospital expansion. During the First World War Pringle served in France as a surgeon in the urgency cases hospital with the French army. In 1918 he became visiting surgeon to Baggot Street hospital, where he worked till 1944. Pringle specialised in abdominal surgery. Known to his students as ‘Satan’, he had a reputation as a swift surgeon. On his retirement from active surgery in 1944 he moved to Ringlestown House, where he spent his time fishing on the Boyne river and managing his farm. He died in 1955.
Sir Hercules and Lady Langrishe moved to Ringlestown in 1956. Hercules Langriche was created Baron of Knocktopher Abbey, Co. Kilkenny in 1777 and the Hercules who lived at Ringlestown inherited the title in 1973. He died in 1998. A relative is Caroline Langriche who is an actress and became known for her role in Judge John Deed as Deed’s ex-wife, Georgina Channing, QC, and was also the leading lady of Lovejoy in the show’s last two seasons. She then moved onto a role in Casualty.
Ringlestown was lived in for a period by Mr and Mrs Mel Beecher. An article on the house by John G.S. Wilkinson appears in ‘Kilmessan and Dunsany: A millennium memoir’
Detached three-bay two-storey house, built c.1840. The house is finished in un-painted roughcast render with plain surrounds to all openings and an eaves course A lean-to slated porch roof is supported on Regency-style wrought-iron supports which are now obscured with greenery; this frames the panelled door which is framed with pilasters with ionic capitols and supports a projecting cornice above which is a decorative fanlight. Window openings are flat-headed and frames are either three over six or six over six sash. The pitched roof is finished in slate and rainwater goods are cast-iron; there are no chimneystacks.
Appraisal
Delightful well preserved late Regency style house which, while all but invisible from the main road, adds greatly to the quality of the architectural surroundings.
Valle Pacis, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, for sale May 2025 photograph courtesy DNG
Valle Pacis, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, for sale May 2025 photograph courtesy DNG.
A63KX66
€1,500,000
4 Bed
2 Bath
264 m²
Valle Pacis, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, for sale May 2025 photograph courtesy DNG.
Valle Pacis, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, A63KX66. DNG Country Homes & Estates is delighted to bring to the market this exceptional property comprising a 4 bedroom period home on c. 8.13 acres of land, located in the heart of the bustling and growing town of Newtownmountkennedy.
Valle Pacis, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, for sale May 2025 photograph courtesy DNG.Valle Pacis, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, for sale May 2025 photograph courtesy DNG.Valle Pacis, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, for sale May 2025 photograph courtesy DNG.
Incorporating a walled garden and grounds zoned Town Centre (TC), Valle Pacis represents an excellent development opportunity. Key Features – Valle Pacis is a protected structure and comprises a two storey over basement Georgian house extending to c. 264.5 sq m of accommodation, laid out over three floors. – c. 8.13 acres / 3.29 Hectares of land in total, comprising c. 2 acres zoned “Town Centre (TC)” and the balance zoned “Open Space” and identified as “OP1 – Opportunity Site” under the Newtownmountkennedy Local Area Plan 2022 – 2028. –
Valle Pacis, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, for sale May 2025 photograph courtesy DNG.Valle Pacis, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, for sale May 2025 photograph courtesy DNG.Valle Pacis, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, for sale May 2025 photograph courtesy DNG.Valle Pacis, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, for sale May 2025 photograph courtesy DNG.Valle Pacis, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, for sale May 2025 photograph courtesy DNG.Valle Pacis, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, for sale May 2025 photograph courtesy DNG.Valle Pacis, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, for sale May 2025 photograph courtesy DNG.Valle Pacis, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, for sale May 2025 photograph courtesy DNG.
The property also features a charming walled garden. This area is included in the area of land which is currently zoned Town Centre (TC) and is primed for future development due to its pivotal position in the centre of Newtownmountkennedy. – The balance of the lands includes open grassland, an area of mature woodland and the remains of a former mill located beside the Glendarragh stream. Description Approached by a gravel driveway accessed from the Main Street, Valle Pacis is an impressive two storey over basement level Georgian house, with a mid-20th century kitchen extension to the rear. Whilst requiring some modernization, this protected structure is full of character and charm, with some very fine period features including ornate cornice and coving, sash and case windows with shutters and a wrought iron veranda to the front. One of the very noteworthy aspects of Valle Pacis is its peaceful elevated position looking south over its lands, which extend down to the banks of the Glendarragh / Altidor River, and beyond to the magical wooded area located along the eastern boundary of the property. The Glendarragh / Altidore River snakes through the lands to meet with the Kilmurray Stream which runs along the southern boundary, adjacent to where the ruins of the former mill building rest, cloaked in ivy. The entire is identified as ‘OP1 – Opportunity Site’ under the current Local Area Plan for Newtownmountkennedy. Zoning Under the Newtownmountkennedy LAP 2022 – 2028, the lands are identified as providing: “the optimal location for the delivery of a number of the desired elements of the town centre public realm improvement programme (including Main Street Plaza and Park Extension). Any development on these lands shall accord the following objectives: – The location and the design of any new structures shall respect and enhance the character and setting of Villa Pacis, the protected structure on the land and its historic curtilage including the walled garden. – Any proposals on the land zoned TC in the opportunity site area shall include a designed park on the land zoned open space and a proposal for delivery of same for public use in tandem with any development, unless the park is otherwise developed independently. The access to this park shall be from the Main Street across from the existing plaza at the Parkview . The walled garden, which sits to rear of Valle Pacis along the northern boundary, is a charming component and it, along with the grounds located to the front and side of the house, are zoned Town Centre (TC). TC Objective – To provide for the development and improvement of appropriate town centre uses including residential, retail, commercial, office and civic use. TC Description – To develop and consolidate the existing town centre to improve its vibrancy and vitality with the densification of appropriate commercial and residential developments ensuring a mix of commercial, recreational, civic, cultural, leisure and residential uses, while delivering a quality urban environment, with emphasise on regeneration, infill town and historic centre conservation; ensuring priority for public transport where applicable, pedestrians and cyclists, while minimising the impact of private car based traffic and enhance and develop the existing centre’s fabric. Uses Open for Consideration Uses generally appropriate for town centres (TC) include residential development, commercial, retail, retail services, health, restaurants, public house, public buildings, hotels, guest houses, nursing / care homes, parking, office, tourism and recreational uses, community, including provision for religious use, utility installations and ancillary developments for town centre uses in accordance with the County Development Plan. Location Valle Pacis is located in the heart of Newtownmountkennedy, a thriving and bustling town which has benefited from the development of numerous new housing estates in the last ten years. As a result, the town has grown significantly from a population of c. 3500 in 2016 to an expected population of over 5200 in 2028. There is an array of local shops, cafes, restaurants and other amenities in the vicinity of the property and the N11 is easily accessible too, providing swift access to the Greater Dublin area. In addition, there is a very regular bus service to and from Dublin City Centre, Dublin Airport, Bray and Greystones. BER exempt Viewing strictly by prior appointment with sole selling agent. Asking Price – Offers in excess of €1,500,000 for the entire.
Valle Pacis, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, for sale May 2025 photograph courtesy DNG.Valle Pacis, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, for sale May 2025 photograph courtesy DNG.Valle Pacis, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, for sale May 2025 photograph courtesy DNG.Valle Pacis, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, for sale May 2025 photograph courtesy DNG.Valle Pacis, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow, for sale May 2025 photograph courtesy DNG.
Dromena House, Dromena Road, Castlebellingham, Kilsaran, Co. Louth courtesy Blue Sky Property, May 2025
A91DT99
€950,000
5 Bed
3 Bath
250 m²
Dating back to the early 1800s, Dromena House is a beautifully restored, detached period property set on approximately 1.25 acres of mature grounds. Lovingly brought back to its former glory by the current owner, the home effortlessly blends historic elegance with modern living. This is a truly rare opportunity to own a unique piece of Irish heritage. Upon entering, you are welcomed by a spacious hallway. To the left, a bright and elegant living room features high ceilings, a stove, and dual-aspect windows, offering an abundance of natural light. Beyond this, there is a charming home office, ideal for remote work or study. To the right, you enter the dining room, which flows into a stylish kitchen, complete with a walk-in pantry, utility room, and a second living area. The ground floor also includes a second snug, a guest bedroom, and a shower room, making it perfect for multi-generational living or guest accommodation. Upstairs, the home boasts four spacious bedrooms and a family bathroom, all tastefully finished while maintaining the property’s period charm. Outside, the property includes a courtyard area featuring a self-contained Granny flat—ideal for extended family, visitors, or rental potential. Dromena House offers timeless beauty, modern functionality, and the serenity of a country estate, all within easy reach of local amenities. Alternatively this could also be an opportunity for a potential investor as the land is zoned Residential. Accommodation: Kitchen: 4.09m x 3.09m Pantry: 2m x 2.22m Living Room: 5m x 5.45m Dining Room: 2.52m x 3.09m Utility Room: 2.01m x 1.07m Back Hallway: 1.07m x 1.09m Bedroom 1: 5m x 5.45m Hallway 2: 1.09m x 4.52m Bedroom 2: 4.26m x 4.03m Hallway 3: 4m x 1.67m Bedroom 3: 3.04m x 3m Bedroom 4: 4.28m 2.03m Landing 1: 1.19m x 2.66m Landing 2: 2.04m x 3m Bathroom: 2.01m x 4.09m Office: 2.08m x 3.05m Living Room: 5.05m x 5.75m Bedroom: 3.04m x 3.07m Hallway: 1.07m x 1.75m Bathroom: 1.69m x 2.08m Sunroom: 2m x 4.01m Snug: 2.08m x 3.05m Granny Flat: Sitting Room: 3.63m x 4.03m Dining Room: 4.43m x 4.09m Kitchen: 2.03m x 3.07m Blue Sky Property and their servants or agents assume no responsibility for and give no guarantees, undertakings or warranties concerning the accuracy, completeness or up to date nature of the information and do not accept any liability whatsoever arising from any errors or omissions. The information does not constitute or form part of a contract and cannot be relied on as a representation of fact. Subject to contract / contract denied. Please note we have not tested any apparatus, fixtures, fittings, or services. Interested parties must undertake their own investigation into the working order of these items. All measurements are approximate, and photographs provided for guidance only.
Detached multiple-bay two-storey house, built c. 1840. L-plan to original house, two-storey gabled return to east of north elevation, various single-storey extensions to north. Main building with hipped slate roofs, clay ridge and hip tiles, painted smooth rendered corbelled chimneystacks with tall red clay pots, painted smooth rendered verge copings, moulded uPVC gutters on eaves corbel course; extensions with pitched artificial slate roofs. Painted smooth rendered walling, V-jointed quoins to main house; coursed rubble stone walling with red brick quoins to north elevation of extension. Square-headed window openings, painted smooth rendered architraves, painted stone sills, painted timber sliding sash windows to east side of south elevation six-over-six to ground floor six-over-three to first floor; painted timber casement windows elsewhere. Square-headed door opening to south elevation, painted smooth rendered surround, painted timber multi-paned door and overlight. Set in landscaped grounds.
Appraisal
This building contains traces of its various stages of evolution. Some original timber sliding sash windows survive.
Mark Bence-Jones. A Guide to Irish Country Houses (originally published as Burke’s Guide to Country Houses volume 1 Ireland by Burke’s Peerage Ltd. 1978); Revised edition 1988 Constable and Company Ltd, London.
p. 11. [French/LGI1912] Tudor revival house of 1844; with steeply pointed gables and dormer-gables, oriels, mullions and tall chimneys.”
Ardsallagh House, Navan, Co. Meath, June 1955, by Alexander Campbell Morgan, Morgan Aerial Photographic Collection, National Library of Ireland.
Not in National Inventory
Record of Protected Structures
Townland: Ardsallagh, tow: Navan
Neo-Tudor house of 1844, with steeply pointed gables and
dormer gables together with oriels, mullions and tall
chimneys. Incl. St. Brigid’s well and gate lodge.
The Landed Gentry and Aristocracy: County Meath. Volume 1. Art Kavanagh, 2005.
The Nangles were granted the barony of Navan in the 1170s by Hugh de Lacy and they erected a castle at Ardsallagh. The Nangles lost their lands in the Cromwellian plantations. John Preston purchased much of the former Nangle properties and in this manner managed to acquire 7,859 acres in Co. Meath and Laois (Queens) Co. Preston placed 1,737 acres in trust for the keeping of two schools, one in Navan and another in Ballyroan, Queens Co. (Laois). Preston’s heir was his grandson, John of Ardsallagh. His daughter, Mary, inherited the property as her brother Phineas had died young.
Mary married Peter Ludlow, M.P. who in his old age became afflicted by gout and had to be carried in and out on men‟s shoulders. Their son, Peter, MP for Co Meath, was created Baron Ludlow of Ardsallagh in 1755 and in 1760 created Viscount Preston and 1st Earl of Ludlow. Peter, the first Earl died in 1750 and he was succeeded by his eldest son, Peter, 2nd Earl of Ludlow, MP for County Huntingdon. Ardsallagh House had well designed formal gardens and a carefully designed landscape. Dean Swift and the Delaneys were regular visitors and many descriptions of the eighteenth century house and gardens survive. The house was described as a good house with some good pictures. Mrs Delaney wrote had difficulty describing the gardens saying that nothing could be wilder or more romantic. There was a grotto in an old stone quarry with statues of Hercules, Atlas and other Greek and Roman characters. Clipped yew hedges were set out like the walls of Troy. Lord Ludlow and the Ardsallagh estate provided 5s worth of bread each week for the poor of the parish. The loaves were placed in St. Mary‟s church. The Duke of Bedford continued this charity until 1907.
In 1836 Ardsalla was the residence of Earl Ludlow. The south east portion of the townland was laid out to form a demesne and deer park. Ardsalla House with its outbuildings stood on the banks of the river. There are very good oak, ash and elm timber and some fir plantations in the demesne.
The third Earl Ludlow willed the property to the Earls of Bedford who took control in 1842. In the mid 1840s the Duke erected the present house, accounts and drawings of which survive in the Bedford Estate Office. Ardsallagh is a Tudor Revival house with steeply pointed gables and dormer gables, oriels, mullions and tall chimneys. This new mansion house for 7th Duke of Bedford, cost £40,000. Wilde writing in1849 said that house looked as if it was half in mourning due to the very black limestone used in its construction. The Duke of Bedford took an active interest in improving the estate and proposed the demolition of the slum houses at Brewshill.
In 1861 the Duke of Bedford died, and Lord John Russell, the British prime minister 1846-52 and 1865-66 inherited the Ardsalla estate. Lord John then asked for a peerage and became Earl Russell of Kingston Russell, and his eldest son became Viscount Amberley of Amberley and Ardsalla. In 1883 Earl Russell of Ardsalla held 3176 acres in Meath and 1017 acres in county Louth. He held no lands in England or elsewhere! His grandson, the third earl and last of the family to own Ardsallagh was the philosopher Bertrand Russell. The Russell Arms Hotel (where the Newgrange Hotel is now located) was erected by the agents of the Duke of Bedford to provide a suitable meeting place for the gentlemen of the county.
The French family lived at Ardsallagh in the latter half of the nineteenth century. William John French married Harriet Caufield of Dromcairne. William John of Ardsallagh died aged 63 in 1876. His son, Captain Caufield French was High Sheriff of Roscommon in 1887. Another son, Houston, an army officer, served in the Egyptian campaign of the 1880s. In 1895 he was appointed to the Yeomen of the Guard, achieving command of that body in 1925. He also served in the Boer War. William De Salis Filgate of Lissrenny, Co. Louth married Georgiana Harriett French, eldest daughter of William John French of Ardsallagh. A fire damaged the house in 1903.
Dr. Robert Collins, a distinguished physician lived in the house for a period. John McCann, M.P. lived at Ardsallagh House. A nationalist MP for Stephen‟s Green division in Dublin, McCann, published the newspaper, The Irish Peasant, in Navan. Ludlow Street, Bedford Row, Preston Place and the Russell Restuarant in Navan commemorate the Ardsallagh landowners.
The Nangles were granted the barony of Navan in the 1170s by Hugh de Lacy and they erected a castle at Ardsallagh. The Nangles lost their lands in the Cromwellian plantations. John Preston purchased much of the former Nangle properties and in this manner managed to acquire 7,859 acres in Co. Meath and Laois (Queens) Co.
Preston placed 1,737 acres in trust for the keeping of two schools, one in Navan and another in Ballyroan, Queens Co. (Laois). Preston’s heir was his grandson, John of Ardsallagh. His daughter, Mary, inherited the property as her brother Phineaas had died young. Mary married Peter Ludlow, M.P. who in his old age became afflicted by gout and had to be carried in and out on men’s shoulders. Their son, Peter, MP for Co Meath, was created Baron Ludlow of Ardsallagh in 1755 and in 1760 created Viscount Preston and 1st Earl of Ludlow. Peter, the first Earl died in 1750 and he was succeeded by his eldest son, Peter, 2nd Earl of Ludlow, MP for County Huntingdon. Ardsallagh House had well designed formal gardens and a carefully designed landscape. Dean Swift and the Delaneys were regular visitors and many descriptions of the eighteenth century house and gardens survive. The house was described as a good house with some good pictures. Mrs Delaney wrote had difficulty describing the gardens saying that nothing could be wilder or more romantic. There was a grotto in an old stone quarry with statues of Hercules, Atlas and other Greek and Roman characters. Clipped yew hedges were set out like the walls of Troy.
Lord Ludlow and the Ardsallagh estate provided 5s worth of bread each week for the poor of the parish. The loaves were placed in St. Mary’s church. The Duke of Bedford continued this charity until 1907.
In 1836 Ardsalla was the residence of Earl Ludlow. The south east portion of the townland was laid out to form a demesne and deer park. Ardsalla House with its outbuildings stood on the banks of the river. There are very good oak, ash and elm timber and some fir plantations in the demesne.
The third Earl Ludlow willed the property to the Earls of Bedford who took control in 1842. In the mid 1840s the Duke erected the present house, accounts and drawings of which survive in the Bedford Estate Office. Ardsallagh is a Tudor Revival house with steeply pointed gables and dormer gables, oriels, mullions and tall chimneys. This new mansion house for 7th Duke of Bedford, cost £40,000. Wilde writing in1849 said that house looked as if it was half in mourning due to the very black limestone used in its construction. The Duke of Bedford took an active interest in improving the estate and proposed the demolition of the slum houses at Brewshill.
In 1861 the Duke of Bedford died, and Lord John Russell, the British prime minister 1846-52 and 1865-66 inherited the Ardsalla estate. Lord John then asked for a peerage and became Earl Russell of Kingston Russell, and his eldest son became Viscount Amberley of Amberley and Ardsalla. In 1883 Earl Russell of Ardsalla held 3176 acres in Meath and 1017 acres in county Louth. He held no lands in England or elsewhere!
His grandson, the third earl and last of the family to own Ardsallagh was the philosopher Bertrand Russell. The Russell Arms Hotel (where the Newgrange Hotel is now located) was erected by the agents of the Duke of Bedford to provide a suitable meeting place for the gentlemen of the county.
The French family lived at Ardsallagh in the latter half of the nineteenth century. William John French married Harriet Caufield of Dromcairne. William John of Ardsallagh died aged 63 in 1876. His son, Captain Caufield French was High Sheriff of Roscommon in 1887. Another son, Houston, an army officer, served in the Egyptian campaign of the 1880s. In 1895 he was appointed to the Yeomen of the Guard, achieving command of that body in 1925. He also served in the Boer War. William De Salis Filgate of Lissrenny, Co. Louth married Georgiana Harriett French, eldest daughter of William John French of Ardsallagh. A fire damaged the house in 1903.
Dr. Robert Collins, a distinguished physician lived in the house for a period. John McCann, M.P. lived at Ardsallagh House. A nationalist MP for Stephen’s Green division in Dublin, McCann, published the newspaper, The Irish Peasant, in Navan.
Bernadette Murray has written a detailed account of Ardsallagh townland.
Ludlow Street and Bedford Row in Navan commemorate the Ardsallagh landowners.
Mark Bence-Jones. A Guide to Irish Country Houses (originally published as Burke’s Guide to Country Houses volume 1 Ireland by Burke’s Peerage Ltd. 1978); Revised edition 1988 Constable and Company Ltd, London.
p. 175. “A restrained two storey early C19 Classical house; eaved roof, three bay front with Doric porch, four bay side. The home of Mr and Mrs John Dinan, 1919-46.”
Kilmoyle, County Limerick, courtesy National Inventory.
Detached three-bay two-storey over basement sandstone ashlar house, built c. 1845, with Doric portico, and four-bay two-storey over basement side elevations. Now in use as a bishop’s palace. Two-storey flat-roofed ancillary structures attached to north side elevation, c. 1960. Hipped slate roof with central valley. Four symmetrical granite chimneystacks with octagonal clay pots. Rendered sprocketed eaves. Profiled cast-iron rainwater goods. Sandstone ashlar faced front and side elevation, and coursed sandstone ashlar rear elevation. Square-headed window openings with sandstone lintels or voussoirs, patent rendered reveals and sills at basement level, sandstone reveals and sills to upper floors with replacement three-over-three and six-over-six timber sash windows. Two Wyatt windows to rear elevation with two-over-two sidelights flanking six-over-six inner sash with timber mullion divisions. Sandstone portico on stepped concrete podium, comprising paired Doric stop fluted columns and piers, with responding pilasters flanking doorcase. Timber doorcase comprising leaded coloured glass sidelights with over panelled timber bases, raised and fielded panelled timber door and tripartite leaded coloured glass overlight. Long tarmacadamed drive through meadow with many mature trees. Quadrant ashlar limestone walls terminating with square-plan limestone ashlar piers with a pair of pedestrian wrought-iron gates flanking matching wrought-iron vehicular gates hanging from inner limestone ashlar piers. Entrance gates adjoin rubble limestone boundary wall.
Appraisal
A solid well composed detached house with a symmetrically placed entrance portico. Unusually built of sandstone, this building appears to have been extensively renovated during the twentieth century. It was formerly known as Westfield as identified on the 1872 edition of the Ordnance Survey of Limerick City. With its large landscaped site and long avenue this house forms one among many important examples of Limerick’s architectural heritage in the environs of North Circular Road. Existing site diminished from original extent, with curving boundary wall separating terrace of houses facing Ennis Road, on footprint of original walled garden.
Kilmoyle, County Limerick, courtesy National Inventory.Kilmoyle, County Limerick, courtesy National Inventory.
A house built by the Boyds, merchants in Limerick city, circa 1845 on the Lansdowne estate and originally known as Westfield. For many years the residence of the Catholic Bishops of Limerick. Sold by the Diocese to Aidan Brooks for development in 2007 for a sum reputed to be > €20 million.
Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.
Mark Bence-Jones. A Guide to Irish Country Houses (originally published as Burke’s Guide to Country Houses volume 1 Ireland by Burke’s Peerage Ltd. 1978); Revised edition 1988 Constable and Company Ltd, London.
p. 159. “(De Burgho, Bt/PB1873) A single storey house with a portico.
Island House, Cloon Island, CLOON AND COMMONS, Castleconnell, County Limerick
Island House, Castleconnell, County Limerick courtesy National Inventory.
Detached three-bay two-storey over basement villa style house, built c. 1840. Comprising pedimented fluted Doric portico to front (east) elevation and gable-fronted breakfront to rear (west) elevation with flanking full-height conservatories. Hipped slate roof having overhanging eaves with timber brackets, rendered chimneystacks and cast-iron rainwater goods. Lined-and-ruled rendered walls having render quoins. Square-headed openings to ground floor with painted stone sills and six-over-six pane timber sliding sash windows. Square-headed openings to basement having bipartite one-over-one pane timber sliding sash windows. Portico comprising fluted Doric style columns supporting rendered entablature with triglyphs and metopes. Square-headed opening having double-leaf half-glazed timber panelled doors. Flight of limestone steps to entrance. Square-headed openings to rear elevation, ground and first floors with render surrounds and double-leaf half-glazed timber panelled doors. Flight of stairs having metal railings to first floor door. Pair of square-profile rendered piers to east with double-leaf cast-iron gates and rubble stone walls terminating in second pair of square-profile piers.
Appraisal
This well composed house retains many features that attest to its high quality design and execution. Historically, the house was the seat of Sir Richard de Burgho, Bt. According to Samuel Lewis’s ‘Topographical Dictionary’, the house was erected in 1815 by Sir John Allen de Burgho (Burke). Small in scale, the building is nonetheless highly decorative incorporating an imposing fluted Doric portico, which gives the façade an air of grandeur. Situated on Cloon Island on the River Shannon, the house is plays a significant role in the land and riverscape of Castleconnell. The house has some archaeological significance being adjacent to a medieval chapel, which was possibly founded in 1291 by Reginald de Burgh.
Island House, Castleconnell, County Limerick courtesy National Inventory.Island House, Castleconnell, County Limerick courtesy National Inventory.
Lewis refers to a “handsome newly erected cottage on the island” in his description of Castleconnell in 1837. Earlier, in 1786, Wilson refers to Park, situated on an island created by a canal and the river Shannon, as the seat of Sir Richard de Burgho. Island House valued at £17+ was the residence of Sir Richard De Burgho at the time of Griffith’s Valuation. He held the property, which was surrounded by nine acres, in fee. In 1894, Slater refers to “The Island” as the property of Lady de Burgho.
For sale March 2022: Myhome.ie and Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors
Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.
€2,250,000
Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.
Island House, Cloon Island, Castleconnell, Limerick
Eircode: V94 AP5Y
6 bedroom 4 bathroom
Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.
LOCATION Limerick City is the third largest city in Ireland and is identified as a gateway city in the National Spatial Strategy for the mid-west region. Renowned for the breathtaking beauty of its lush green countryside and its vibrant riverside city, Limerick’s location offers a unique opportunity to enjoy a quality of life where city and country living co-exist harmoniously. A major attraction for people living and working in Limerick is its accessibility to some breathtaking natural beauty spots, from the majestic River Shannon flowing through the city and riverside villages such as Castleconnell to the stunning Lough Gur, with its captivating scenery and folklore, along with a wealth of archaeology and history dating back to Stone Age times. Limerick is also a key gateway city to some of the most spectacular scenery in all of Europe; most notably the Wild Atlantic Way, which includes the world famous Burren and Cliffs of Moher in Co Clare and other stunning Atlantic coastal regions such as the spectacular Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula Castleconnell is a scenic village in on the banks of the River Shannon just 15km outside Limerick City. Castleconnell is located in County Limerick, right on the border with County Clare. The village has a selection of cafes, pubs and restaurants, there is a neighbourhood centre, school, church, train station, Garda station and post office. Castleconnell is home to a number of fine architectural buildings and many activities that centre around its riverside location. The four star Castle Oaks Hotel sits on 26 acres of mature gardens in Castleconnell. The village remains a popular location for anglers fishing on the Shannon and Mulcair rivers and has a long history in angling, once being a popular location for royalty to fish. Castleconnell also has a rich and diverse bird life, particularly for swans that migrate from Iceland in the winter to breed on the river. The village embraces its riverside setting and has an active rowing club in existence since 1983. Castleconnell’s Ahane Hurling Club is the most successful hurling team in Limerick, having won 19 senior county titles between 1931 and 1948. There are a number of beautiful riverside walks on both sides of the river with those on the Clare side being accessed by a footbridge. A short walk will bring you to the Fairy Woods. There is a children’s playground located at the Ferry Car Park. Since the line was reopened in 2009 commuters can travel by train to Limerick City and Nenagh and there is also an intercity service to Dublin Shannon Airport 42km Limerick City Centre 15km Adare Manor 30km University of Limerick 11km Dublin Airport 195km
Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.
THE HISTORY OF ISLAND HOUSE Having tried to learn Greek at school, the owner found it serendipitous to discover that Island House was Grecian revival in architectural style. It is thought that it was built in 1826 and was described in 1837 as “a handsome newly erected cottage on the island. A detached three-bay two-storey over basement villa style house built comprising pedimented fluted Doric portico to front (east) elevation and gable fronted breakfront to rear (west) elevation with more recent construction of flanking full height conservatories”.
The house was originally built as a fishing lodge for a Welsh coal mine owner. By 1866 it was the last residence of Sir Richard Donnellan de Burgo, 4th baronet, who originally owned large tracts of Castleconnell. When he died in 1873 the title became extinct. Island House is located on the nine-acre Cloon Island or in Irish Inis-cluan, the island of the meadow. The island is formed by an anabranch of the River Shannon and is accessed by a stone castellated bridge. Apart from Island House, the ruins of Cloon Church are also located on Cloon Island. This small medieval church is reported to date from the eleventh century but is also believed to have been a Franciscan friary founded by Renald de Burgo in 1291. There are two ancient cross-slabs set into its western wall and a short distance from its door there is a large stone, the centre of which had been hollowed out in the shape of a cross.
Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.
When the current owners bought Island House in 1985 from Mrs. Levy, the house was in good condition but was old fashioned in layout, with bedrooms both upstairs and downstairs. Also, because the kitchen was downstairs and the dining room upstairs, there was a dumb waiter for bringing the food up from the kitchen. Accordingly in 1989, they undertook a major building project, designed to transform the house into a home suitable for modern family living.
Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.
Features include: Six bedrooms and three bathrooms downstairs; The kitchen and reception rooms are now all upstairs; A wine cellar was constructed underneath a new utility room; A study was created between the valleys of the roof and is accessed by a spiral staircase case made from French wood. The study is particularly suitable for remote working; A two-storey conservatory was built at the rear of the house; An upstairs balcony was constructed at the rear of the house with double stairs to the garden. As well as the building works, they also engaged in an extensive programme of planting flowers, shrubs and trees in the grounds, which already contained a large number of mature deciduous and evergreen trees. A feature is the beech walk along the riverbank. Importantly, they also opened up a beautiful view of the river to the rear of the house. Today Island House combines attractive features from the Regency period, such as cornices, fireplaces, original curved glass and original patterned mahogany internal doors, with the requirements for comfortable modern living. The owners say they particularly enjoy the extensive gardens and river side location. Its island location beside an attractive village makes it quite unique.
Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.
Accommodation
Island House sits hidden on the edge of Castleconnell Village behind mature trees, stone walls and electric gates. On approach, over the private stone castellated bridge and on the winding tree lined driveway one is instantly transported to a serene escape away from the hustle and bustle of city life, which is ironic considering Cloon Island is only 15km from Limerick City Centre, 10 km to University of Limerick and a stone’s throw from the M7. This home oozes character and charm and although it underwent a significant refurbishment in the late eighties it held on to many of the stunning original features. It evident that this is a family home with warm welcoming tones and elegant décor throughout. The waterside setting is breathtaking and the sound of the flowing river is unmistakable when one steps outside the rear of the house. Mature trees, landscaped gardens and flower beds, set over 9 acres provide a private piece of heaven with all of life’s amenities in reach.
Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.
The front façade features stone steps to the commanding and beautiful Doric Portio leading to a double wooden front door with glass panels. The front foyer provides an elegant space with striking original features including original patterned mahogany doors, magnificent cornicing, dado rail and skirting boards along with 3.3m ceilings.
Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.
To the left is the Drawing room, to the right the Dining room, back to the foyer the main hallway is straight ahead, which provides access to the Family Room, Kitchen, Conservatory and Stairway to Garden level accommodation. Each room at ground floor connects to the next which provides a wonderful flow to the elegant living space. The Drawing Room enjoys both front and side garden window aspect through 3 wooden sash windows, this room boasts an original fireplace and of course the feature cornicing, it has carpet flooring and is a comfortable space. A doorway leads to the Family Room, which enjoys dual aspect to the side garden and a doorway to the conservatory bringing extra light and river views to the family room.
Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.
A spiral French wood staircase leads to a spacious office/study in the converted attic space. There is a small landing space at the top of the stairs, the office area is beyond bifolding wooden doors, a large sky light in the centre of the ceiling brings plenty of light into the space, there is ample storage units and an independent air conditioning/heating unit. Back to the Family Room, a doorway leads back to the main hallway where there is a quaint WC and access to the kitchen and the conservatory, although referring to this space as a conservatory is doing it an injustice, it is a mix of solid walls and conservatory feature construction spanning two floors providing a half conservatory at this level and two separate ‘quarter’ conservatories at garden level.
Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.
At this level the space provides double doors to the rear balcony with impressive twin stairs leading to the garden and boasting incredible views of the river and surrounding landscape. This space has so many wonderful uses and is currently utilised as a breakfast room/family space. The kitchen can be accessed from the sunroom and from the hallway. It is a warm, welcoming space and provides a fully fitted kitchen with solid wood worktops, an island with built in storage units and wine rack, an aga and built in oven and hob. The kitchen enjoys side garden window aspect and like the family room the doorway to the conservatory brings extra light and river views. Accessed via a doorway from the kitchen is the Dining Room, which has wonderful dual aspect to the front and side garden via timber sash windows, the original flooring in this room is striking, as is the original fireplace, in addition to the cornicing which feature throughout, another solid wood original door leads back to the entrance foyer.
Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.
GARDEN LEVEL The feature staircase in the main hallway with striking wooden and metal balustrades provides access to the ample garden level accommodation. The Master Suite is located to the rear of the house with access to a private section of the conservatory, a walk in wardrobe and ensuite with power shower. This is a magnificent room with dual aspect to the side via a large window and to the rear via a wooden door with glass panels to the sunroom, providing river views and direct access to the garden. Opposite the Master Suite there are two interconnecting rooms, the double room, similar to the Master has access to a private section of the conservatory and garden, it is a warm carpeted room with a window overlooking the side of the house and has a shower room, shared with a single room with bunk beds and fitted wardrobe, endearingly referred to as the ‘bunk room. This room also has side window aspect and carpet flooring. The private access to this suite both from the hallway and the garden provides an opportunity to utilise this area as living space somewhat independent of the rest of the house. Located between both of these suites, accessed from the main hallway is the utility room, which has a double wooden doors to the rear garden, fitted storage units at either side and a stairway leading to the wine cellar. At the opposite end of the hallway there is a large games room/playroom which provides access to 3 further bedrooms and the main family bathroom. The games room is a large space with carpet flooring and side garden window aspect. Each of the bedrooms are double rooms with carpet flooring, two of which have built in wardrobes. The bathroom boasts unique cellar features, it was originally the ‘coal hole’ with a hatch from the front of the house. It is now a spacious family bathroom with tiled floor, bath, wc and whb.
Features
Exceptional riverside location on 9 acres of manicured lawns, mature trees and shrubs. 6 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms Westerly River views 4 Large Reception Rooms Original features retained throughout C. 510m2 SERVICES Electric Gates with intercom system CCTV Cameras and Alarm Wired Fire Alarm Gas Heating Broadband
BER Details
BER: Exempt
Viewing Details
Strictly by appointment only with Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors
Asking Price
In excess €2,250,000
Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.Island House, Castleconnell, Co Limerick for sale March 2022 courtesy Murphy Gubbins Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors.
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